Could Your BBQ Kill You?

Swiss researchers found that eating 160 grams or more of processed meat (about two 3-ounce sausage links) a day was associated with a 44 percent increased risk of death, compared to people who ate 10g to 20g a day (a slice or two of bacon).

Fortunately for your summer's sake, the people who chowed down on processed foods in the study were also generally unhealthy, meaning the occasional ballpark frank won't kill you. Those study participants were more likely to smoke and skip out on fruits and vegetables—both of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, a major cause of death.

Nevertheless, researchers believe that nitrites—additives in processed meats that help them keep their color and texture—could contribute to the formation of carcinogens in your body. So fire up the grill this season, but go easy on the processed meats. Besides, you don't need to use a lot for flavor—an ounce of sausage per person in a pasta dish or salad is enough, says Toby Amidor, R.D.

To err on the side of caution, look for "no nitrite" meats (like Trader Joe's All Natural Uncured All Beef Hot Dogs; $3.99) at most health food stores. "Since they don't have nitrites, they won't look so pretty when you cook them," Amidor says, "but you'll get the same flavor."

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